Redcap oranda

Carassius auratus

A white body with red headgrowth concentrated on the crown

This is a redcap form within the same goldfish species. Look for white body colour, a raised red cranial cap, dorsal fin and divided tail together. A red patch on a smooth-headed white goldfish does not establish this form. Regional tail shapes differ; the illustration is not a UK show-standard assessment.

Adult length: About 10 cm
Lifespan: Up to 30 years
pH: 7–8.4
Hardness: 5–19 dGH

Natural habitat: Wild habitats include rivers, lakes, ponds and ditches, often in vegetated still or slow water; ornamental goldfish are domesticated forms.

Watch whether headgrowth limits vision or feeding. Avoid sharp decor and strongly competitive feeders. Colour placement does not establish health or compatibility. Swimming and feeding ability vary among forms. Provide filtration, oxygenation and maintenance.

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